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 Upon this information the consul-general proposed that he be sent to Korea, with a naval force consisting of two or more of the men-of-war on the Asiatic station, "to ask for an official explanation of the Sherman affair, and to negotiate, if possible, a treaty of amity and of commerce." Secretary Fish communicated this information to the American minister at Peking, Mr. Low, and stated to him that "it has been decided to authorize negotiations to be had with the authorities of Corea, for the purpose of securing a treaty for the protection of shipwrecked mariners, and to intrust the conduct of the negotiations to you. Should the opportunity seem favorable for obtaining commercial advantages in Corea, the proposed treaty should include provisions to that effect." Reference has been made to the resolution introduced in Congress in 1845, looking to the opening of trade with Korea (page 142) and the subject had been from that date in the mind of the government. Mr. Low was instructed "to exercise prudence and discretion, to maintain firmly the right of the United States to have their seamen protected, and to avoid a conflict by force unless it cannot be avoided without dishonor." He was also informed that the admiral in command of the Asiatic squadron had been directed to accompany him, "with a display of force adequate to support the dignity of the United States."

From the outset Mr. Low manifested a want of confidence in the expedition, but he entered resolutely upon the execution of the instructions of his government. Admiral Rodgers and Consul-General Seward were invited to Peking for conference, and the Chinese